Pa. cop's method questioned in prostitution sting

The officer's report states the woman began performing a sexual act, then he told her the police were coming

WXPI

HOMESTEAD, Pa. — A prostitution sting in Homestead last month has raised some questions about an officer's actions. According to police paperwork, Diana Gross was arrested after she began to perform a sex act on an undercover officer.

The paperwork stated that moments later, the officer said police were on their way. The officer then detained Gross until backup arrived. Council members said they think the officer went too far, but the Homestead Police Union representative disagreed. The Homestead chief of police and District Attorney Stephen Zappala said the officer’s actions were OK and he has not been suspended.

However, Beth Pittinger of the Citizens Police Review Board said while the officer’s actions aren’t illegal in Pennsylvania, they were unethical. “It’s offensive, and it's my understanding that once a deal is made, the offering party may be arrested. You don't have to proceed until you're having sex,” Pittinger said.